Abdullateef Adedeji is Chairman, Kwara State Beach Soccer. In this
interview with MIKE ADEYEMI he speaks on the development of the game
in the state as well as plans to take beach soccer to the grassroots
across State. Excerpts:
What led to your appointments as Chairman, Kwara Beach Soccer Association?
Well. Maybe my passion and zeal toward sporting activities, especially
football. Recall most times I’m at the stadium to lend supports either
to ABS or Kwara United. I’m a footballer, I played the game all
through and even at the media games. Much later, I got to know that a
lot of people are tracking my attitude toward enhancing sports
generally in the state.
I think a combination of all these led to my appointment as chairman
of beach soccer in Kwara State.
How did you joggle your job as GM Radio Kwara and chairman Beach Soccer?
It has been an easy one. As General Manager of Radio Kwara, I work
24/7, it doesn’t take away my passion for sports. I’m a passionate
person in whatever I do.
And with the use of technology, it makes my job faster. I do not see
the two clashing instead they had a symbiotic relationship with one
another.
How would you rate beach soccer development in Kwara State?
It’s just evolving, it’s actually growing. All hands must be on deck
as myself and the team are working towards building a strong beach
soccer development in the state. First and foremost, in a short while
we are coming up with a seminar to integrate the concepts of beach
soccer in the state.
We want to talk, and during the discuss a lots of people will get to
know that the game of beach soccer has arrived in Kwara State.
During the talk, we will propose a pitch field, because our pitch is
different from the conventional pitch. And moving forward, we want to
sensitise all the 16 local governments in Kwara State to tell them
there is a new soccer in town.
We want to co-opt students at the primary school and the secondary
school level. So we have started. Soonest people will get to know that
beach soccer has arrived.
What has impeded growth of beach soccer in Kwara State?
Because it is a new game, definitely it will have its challenges.
As an individual, I don’t see challenges as an impediment. Instead, I
see it as an inspiration to conquer such obstacles.
First, we must seek recognitions from the NFF which we have done. So
by extension legally, we are existing rightfully in the state. Two.
Beyond that, we want to look at what will be our source of revenue.
Because funding is a big challenge for all sporting events in Nigeria.
So we are using our 6 skills to ensure that all these issues are
surmounted as soon as possible.
How do you think Kwara State Government can assist beach soccer in the state?
For me, it has to be a win-win situation. If you know your onions, you
will not depend on government. Lets put the value of beach soccer to
the state government.
If they see the value derivation, they will know where to plough their
resources. If we channel our efforts in impacting the youths in the
area of sports, invariably it would curb them from nefarious
activities.
And I’m sure if government sees these efforts, they will know where to
come in. The government has provided an enabling environment , it is
now left for us to build on it.
What policy is on ground by your association to take beach soccer to
the grassroots in Kwara?
I have just stated that now. Our plan is to go to the 16 Local
Government Area at secondary school level. That is the pioneer efforts
we are doing. Once we are able to consolidate on that, then all other
things will follow. It is now left for us as an association to promote
the game in the state.
How would you rate beach soccer in Kwara?
We are still evolving. We have not been elevated to the top of
recognition. You can’t compare us with states like Kebbi, Osun and
Rivers. We are just starting.
But I can assure you that before the end of this year, the impacts of
the game will be felt in the State.
